Today we’d like to introduce you to Shan Xu
Hi Shan, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve always been fascinated by the intersection of technology and nature. I started my journey as an artist by exploring how the two can coexist and what kind of conversations they can spark. Over the years, I’ve worked with digital media and interactive installations, creating a space where people can reflect on the hidden connections between the artificial and the organic.
After studying New Media Arts, I co-founded Useless Art Agency, a platform to support digital artists and help them navigate the art world. It’s been an exciting adventure, and I love being part of a movement that’s reshaping the future of art.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Definitely not a smooth road! There have been bumps—like figuring out how to merge art with tech without losing my mind in coding or trying to explain to people why ‘useless art’ is actually a good thing. But hey, challenges make the journey more interesting, right?
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a new media artist who loves blending technology and nature to create interactive art. My work focuses on making people think about the digital world and its connection to the environment. What sets me apart? Probably my obsession with turning ‘useless’ things into meaningful art—and somehow convincing people that ‘useless’ is the new cool!
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
As a kid, I loved playing with mud. One day, I had the brilliant idea to build a ‘castle’ in our backyard. I spent the whole afternoon smearing mud on the walls, decorating it with sticks and stones. When I proudly showed my parents my masterpiece, their expressions went from shocked to speechless, and I was immediately put to work cleaning up my ‘construction site.’ Even though my artwork didn’t survive, I like to think that was the start of my career as a new media artist!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.useless-art.com/
